Fresno: Smoke shop employee critically injured in attempted armed robbery

Employee Shot During Early Morning Robbery Attempt

A terrifying and violent armed robbery attempt at a local business in Fresno has tragically left a young store employee fighting for his life in a nearby hospital. Early Tuesday morning, at approximately 3:55 a.m., officers from the Fresno Police Department rapidly responded to urgent 911 calls regarding a shooting victim at the APH Smoke Shop, prominently located near the intersection of Belmont Avenue and 9th Street. Upon arriving at the chaotic scene, responding officers quickly discovered a male employee, described as being in his 20s, lying inside the store suffering from a single, severe gunshot wound to his upper body. Emergency medical personnel were immediately dispatched and quickly transported the injured man to a local hospital for urgent care, where he is currently listed in critical but stable condition as he receives ongoing medical treatment for his injuries.

Intensive Police Search Underway for Two Suspects

According to the preliminary police investigation and witness statements, the violent incident began when two unidentified male suspects entered the smoke shop and attempted to forcibly rob the business. The dangerous suspects reportedly aggressively demanded money from the young employee who was diligently working his shift at the time. During the terrifying course of the attempted robbery, the employee was tragically shot by the suspects before any cash could apparently be secured. Following the unexpected burst of gunfire, both suspects immediately fled the scene on foot and currently remain at large in the community. Police detectives are actively canvassing the surrounding commercial and residential area to gather any available security surveillance video that might help identify the dangerous perpetrators. Authorities are strongly urging anyone with any relevant information about this violent crime or the fleeing suspects to immediately contact the Fresno Police Department at (559) 621-7000 to assist with the ongoing criminal investigation.